To What Extent Was Germany Responsible for the First World War?

Summary: Discusses the extent to which Germany was responsible for starting World War I.
Keywords: Kaiser Wilhelm, Austria, Hungary, first world war, Weltpolitik, Austria-Hungary

The First World War was not caused singularly by Germany and Austria-Hungary as the treaty of Versailles has set out. Germany is greatly responsible for much of the tension of the world situation in 1914, resulting from its aggressive policy of Weltpolitik, its attempts to have a superior navy, the Kaiser's personal poorly said remarks, and its attempts to break up the Triple Entente. However Germany was not solely responsible for the tension, many other events had occurred outside Germany's control, which had the same effect. Germany was also largely responsible for allowing the conflict in the Balkans to escalate into a major European conflict, by giving Austria-Hungary free reign, though it was not their intent. However Germany should not be held responsible for implementing its Schlieffen plan once war seemed immanent, as it was militarily necessary. Despite having large...